Introduction

In a significant move, former Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith is set to take the helm as the new offensive coordinator for Ohio State. This transition comes in the wake of Smith's prior engagements with various NFL teams and a notable tenure with the Steelers. As Ohio State aims to improve its offensive output after a disappointing end to their 2025 season, Smith's extensive experience in the NFL will be pivotal for the Buckeyes moving forward.

Background of Arthur Smith

Arthur Smith has a robust coaching resume, having been involved in the NFL since 2011. Most recently, he served as the offensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 2024 and 2025 seasons. Under his leadership, the Steelers managed to rank 16th and 15th in scoring offense, respectively, showcasing his capability to manage an NFL-level offense. Before his stint with Pittsburgh, Smith was the head coach for the Atlanta Falcons from 2021 to 2023, where he compiled a record of 21-30.

Transitioning to College Football

Smith's decision to join Ohio State marks a significant career shift from the professional ranks to college football. Prior to committing to the Buckeyes, Smith was in discussions with several NFL teams, including the Philadelphia Eagles and Tennessee Titans, about their offensive coordinator vacancies. He was even previously linked to other prominent teams like the Arizona Cardinals, Detroit Lions, and Los Angeles Chargers, indicating that his stock among coaching candidates remains high.

Ohio State Offensive Overview

The Buckeyes offense, while showing promise in the 2025 season—ranking fifth in the Big Ten with an average of 33.4 points per game—fell short when it mattered most. Their last two games ended in disappointment, scoring only 10 points against Indiana in the Big Ten Championship Game and subsequently losing to Miami in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals. This trend signifies a need for a fresh approach, and Smith's background in game strategy will be critical in rejuvenating Ohio State's performance.

Key Contributors Coming Back

One of the encouraging factors for Smith as he steps into this new role is the retention of key players such as quarterback Julian Sayin, wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, and running back Bo Jackson. These returning athletes are crucial as they represent a solid foundation to build upon. Maintaining the continuity with these offensive stars will be essential as Smith looks to implement his strategies and optimize their talent for the upcoming 2026 season.

The Road Ahead for Ohio State

As the Buckeyes gear up for a critical 2026 season, the expectation is not just to maintain their status in the Big Ten but to aim for a deeper playoff journey. Smith’s arrival is timely, especially after a national title win in 2024, as Ohio State aims to climb back to the pinnacle of college football. The Buckeyes are also entering this season with a strong recruiting class, ranked fourth nationally in the transfer portal by 247Sports, enhancing their roster depth and competitiveness.

Conclusion

Arthur Smith’s move to Ohio State as offensive coordinator is a decisive step for both the coach and the football program. With his extensive NFL experience and a fresh perspective, Smith is poised to make a significant impact on the Buckeyes' offensive strategy. The pressure is on as Ohio State seeks to rebound from a tough end to the previous season while capitalizing on returning talent and new recruits. If successful, Smith could play a vital role in restoring Ohio State’s dominance in college football.